They were led by an outstanding special teams (first in the Big Ten in kickoff return average[3] and second in the nation) unit that helped them start with favorable field position.
[6] Taking advantage of a Purdue fumble, the Broncos scored first on a 49-yard flea flicker to go up 8–0 after making a two-point conversion.
[7] Purdue was unable to capitalize on the onside kick, fumbling the ball at WMU's 14-yard line.
On the next drive, WMU scored on a one-yard touchdown pass to Josh Schaffer to take the lead 15–10.
After the Broncos turned the ball over on downs, the Boilermakers added to their lead on a 19-yard Carson Wiggs field goal to make it 27–15 at the end of the first half.
Continuing the drive, the Broncos scored on a one-yard Tevin Drake rushing touchdown make it 34–25 going into the fourth quarter.
[7] In the fourth quarter, the Boilermakers added to their lead on a 26-yard Carson Wiggs field goal to make it 37–25.
On the next Broncos drive on a fourth-and-10 play at Purdue's 12-yard line, Carder fumbled the ball after being sacked.
Continuing the drive, the Broncos cut the lead 37–32 on a five-yard touchdown pass to Chleb Ravenell.